Jack Thurman Perry

Before her passing on December 14, 2024, Jack and Lucy shared 64 years together after marrying on December 22, 1960, in Jefferson County, Kentucky. They had planned a family wedding at Burning Fork, Kentucky, in the eastern mountains, but a sudden snowstorm kept them from traveling. Instead of a family celebration, they spent their honeymoon at the Brown Hotel in downtown Louisville, a place that always remained special to them. Jack was born on May 24, 1930, in Letcher County, Kentucky, to Thurman McKinley Perry and Virginia Early Perry. He was proud of his heritage and spoke often of his parents.

His father, known as Dr. Perry of Jenkins, delivered countless babies and cared for coal miners and others in need. Jack loved sharing stories about T. M. Perry’s early years as a doctor and the times he was able to tag along. His mother, Virginia, was a homemaker and an accomplished artist whose paintings continue to be treasured by the family. Jack graduated in 1950 from the Male High School in Louisville and attended the Kentucky School for the Blind for a short time. In September 1948, while still a student, he registered for the Selective Service System. The registrar noted that he wore glasses with a heavy lens and was nearly blind in his right eye. He was never called to serve and always had sight issues. Jack worked for the Kentucky State Department of Library and Archives, where he served clients who were blind or visually impaired. During his visits, he assessed their reading needs and, when necessary, arranged for recorders and books on tape so they could continue to enjoy reading.

Jack loved Jesus and lived with a deep sense of faith. He enjoyed old gospel songs, westerns, science fiction, politics and playing games on his iPad. He was also always willing to do any job Lucy needed done. After retiring from the state, Jack spent several years helping Lucy with her concession business, which she operated through the state and the Department for the Blind. When she eventually retired, Jack was finally able to enjoy long, quiet days in front of the television or computer.

It is an impossible task to write an obituary for Jack alone, because he and Lucy were always remembered together as Uncle Jack and Aunt Lucy. Though they had no children of their own, they leave behind numerous nieces and nephews who truly loved them and will cherish their memory.

Visitation will be held at Evergreen Funeral Home, 4623 Preston Highway, Louisville, Kentucky, on June 17, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Service from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, with entombment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery.